Jamaica
UpdatedYoung Businessman Found Dead After Port Maria Supermarket Fire
A fire that destroyed Ling Fei Supermarket and Wholesale on Stennett Street on Saturday has claimed the life of 24-year-old Li Kanghin, who was found inside the building during cooling-down operations. Police have dismissed social media claims that a firefighter was also trapped.
By Dwight Simpson
PORT MARIA, ST. MARY, JAMAICA — A fire that destroyed Ling Fei Supermarket and Wholesale on Stennett Street on Saturday, October 10, has claimed the life of one of its operators.
According to the Jamaica Observer, citing police reports, 24-year-old Li Kanghin was found inside the building during cooling-down operations after firefighters brought the blaze under control.
Police also dismissed social media claims that a firefighter had been trapped inside, saying no such incident was reported.
The cause of the fire remains undetermined, and St. Mary police say investigations are ongoing.
Fire Breaks Out Saturday Morning
The fire broke out at Ling Fei Supermarket, a business reportedly operated by Chinese nationals, shortly before or around 10 a.m. on Saturday.
Witnesses reported seeing heavy black smoke rising from the building, prompting an emergency response as firefighters worked to prevent the flames from spreading to surrounding businesses and properties.
Firefighters from the Port Maria Fire Brigade responded to the emergency, receiving assistance from personnel with Jamaica's National Water Commission (NWC).
Smoke and Destruction
Emergency crews faced the challenge of bringing the blaze under control while protecting nearby structures in the busy commercial area.
Video Circulates on Social Media
Video footage shared on social media shows thick smoke rising from the building as emergency crews respond below. An individual can also be seen climbing a ladder alongside the structure.
The footage has not been independently verified by CanJam News.
Video Credit: Social Media / Original Creator
Police Dismiss Firefighter Rumour
St. Mary police confirmed that no firefighter was trapped inside the building, directly contradicting claims that had circulated widely on social media in the hours following the fire.
Authorities say the investigation into the cause of the blaze is ongoing, and no confirmed explanation has been provided as to what started the fire.
Investigation Continues
As the community mourns the loss of Li Kanghin, several questions remain, including the full circumstances of his death and whether any additional injuries occurred.
CanJam News will continue following developments and report further information as it becomes available.
Anyone with verified photographs, videos or firsthand information about the incident is encouraged to contact CanJam News.
Reporting: Dwight Simpson | CanJam News
Source & attribution
Reporting by CanJam News. Information in this article is based on publicly available statements and verified reporting available at publication.
Topics
